A major public health emergency has unfolded in Indore after contaminated drinking water claimed at least 10 lives in the Bhagirathpura area. More than 150 people have been hospitalised with severe stomach infections. An official probe has now confirmed the presence of bacteria commonly found in sewage in the local water supply, triggering outrage and urgent government action.
Residents say they had warned authorities days before the situation worsened. The delayed response has intensified anger and fear across the locality.
What Caused the Indore Water Contamination?
The ongoing inquiry has found dangerous bacteria in water samples collected from Bhagirathpura. Officials say these bacteria are generally present in sewer water and contain human waste.
Investigators believe a leak in a sewage line may have allowed wastewater to mix with the drinking water pipeline. The exact point of contamination is still under investigation.
How Many People Are Affected?
At least 10 people have died, including vulnerable individuals such as infants and the elderly. More than 150 residents remain hospitalised, while many others received outpatient treatment.
Local hospitals have increased staff and emergency beds to handle the surge in patients. Health teams are monitoring the condition of those admitted.
People living in Bhagirathpura say they noticed foul-smelling and discoloured water several days before the outbreak. Many claim they complained to civic officials but received no response.
As illnesses spread, panic set in. Several families stopped using tap water completely. Anger grew after deaths were reported.
Government Response After Public Backlash
Following widespread criticism, the state government announced emergency measures. Authorities arranged clean water tankers and stopped the local water supply to prevent further exposure.
The administration also initiated action against municipal officials responsible for water management. A detailed investigation is underway to fix accountability.
Officials say strict steps will follow once laboratory results confirm the exact bacteria involved.
Health officials have urged residents to avoid drinking tap water until further notice. They have advised boiling water before use and maintaining strict hygiene.
People experiencing vomiting, diarrhoea, or fever have been asked to seek medical help immediately.
Why This Incident Raises Bigger Concerns
The Indore tragedy has exposed serious gaps in urban water safety and monitoring systems. Experts warn that ageing pipelines and poor maintenance can lead to deadly contamination if not addressed quickly.
The incident has also renewed calls for faster complaint redressal and routine water quality testing in densely populated areas.
The investigation is ongoing, and more test results are expected soon. Officials say corrective steps will follow once the source of contamination is fully identified.
For now, residents remain cautious and demand long-term solutions to ensure safe drinking water.
